What does being a man mean to you?

[Lucy23]

Thank you for your answers. And especially that you echoed positive traits men can aspire to.

A reccuring theme I've noticed is that many of you, and myself included, relish what society might call "manly", to borrow Ellie's words. However, I guess it's not only my imagination that to deviate from that image in any way means the same society will scold you. It's as if there is only a narrow scope where a man can fit; we are not allowed to be soft, to enjoy dressing, etc. It looks like a "true" man is better defined by what he shouldn't do. Heck, I've been asked if I'm gay for my colourful choice of trousers.

Although, it's good that it hasn't stopped you from being you.

I really like what Bonnie and Ellie hinted at; that the social expectations of both genders might hurt us in the long run, that men and women might enjoy the same things and the very fact will not diminish anyone's being man or woman. It's a shame...

It means that I am a meaningless mortal, an advanced but still primitive mammal who does not understand his purpose and which is forced to interact on a daily basis with other members of the same species in a primitive and hostile manner.

I take it you don't like being man...? But why forced? Do you feel that there is only a single way for a man to interact with others?

I really don't like my male side so I try not to be that person.

May I ask why?